If you are looking for the hardy, versatile, aromatic perennial succulent plant that is suitable for shady subtropical and sunny water-wise gardens, forms an attractive groundcover even when it is not blooming. Look no further than the Plectranthus neochilus , which is a stunning member of the Plectranthus genus. It has several other common names: lobster flower, blue coleus, mosquito bush, Coleus neochilus, and smelly fur flower. 

The blue coleus is a much-branched succulent plant that is native to South Africa and belongs to the mint family. It has a decumbent to erect stem that can grow up to 20 inches tall and 2 feet wide and has a spreading habit, making it an excellent choice for ground cover or container gardening. It features unique, vibrant blue-green foliage with a sometimes slightly sticky, velvety texture. The leaves of the blue coleus are deeply serrated, giving them a lobed appearance, hence the name "lobster flower." 

The blooms of the blue coleus Plectranthus neochilus have the standout feature of deep blue or purple smelly scented flowers. The specific epithet "neochilus (nee-oh-KY-lus)" means "new lips" and refers to the large lower lip of the flowers. When the leaves are crushed or brushed against, they emit a strong fragrance reminiscent of camphor or mint. This scent is said to repel mosquitoes and other insects, making it a natural and aromatic addition to your outdoor space. 

In terms of propagation, the blue coleus can be easily grown from stem cuttings. Keep the cutting in a warm, humid environment until it develops roots, then transplant it into its permanent location.  

Plectranthus neochilus can be mildly toxic if ingested because of its essential oils and chemical compounds, causing gastrointestinal discomfort, respiratory distress, and organ failure. 

It is relatively easy to care for and adds a touch of beauty and fragrance to any garden or indoor space. Whether you choose to grow it as ground cover or in containers, this plant is sure to be a showstopper. 

Watering Needs

To keep your Plectranthus neochilus blue coleus healthy and thriving, it's important to provide it with proper watering. They typically have shallow roots and receive sufficient water, but they store water in their stems so they can withstand prolonged droughts. 

This lobster flower plant prefers slightly moist soil, but it's essential to avoid overwatering, as it can lead to root rot. Allow the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings, and then water your coleus blue thoroughly, ensuring that the water reaches the root zone. 

During the hotter months or in dry climates, you may need to water your blue coleus more frequently to prevent the soil from completely drying out. However, always make sure to check the moisture level of the soil before watering to avoid waterlogged conditions. 

It's also a good idea to water the plant in the morning or early afternoon to allow the foliage to dry before evening. This helps prevent issues such as fungal diseases that can occur when the leaves remain wet for an extended period. 

Remember, it's better to slightly underwater than to overwater your blue coleus. Pay attention to the blue coleus plant's foliage and overall appearance. If the leaves start to wilt or turn yellow, it may be a sign that it needs more water. On the other hand, if your Plectranthus neochilus leaves become droopy and the soil feels consistently wet, you may be overwatering. 

Light Requirement

The Plectranthus neochilus thrives in bright, indirect light conditions. It prefers a location where it can receive partial shade or filtered sunlight throughout the day. They are thus perfectly suited to grow in the shade of trees. Placing it near a south-facing window with a sheer curtain or in a spot with dappled sunlight would be ideal.  

Direct sunlight can be too intense for the blue coleus and may cause the leaves to burn or fade in color. On the other hand, insufficient light can result in leggy growth and a loss of the plant's vibrant blue hues. 

Observe your blue coleus plant and adjust its placement accordingly. If you notice the leaves becoming pale or the coleus plant stretching toward the light, it may be an indication that it needs more brightness. On the other hand, if the leaves start to yellow or appear stunted, they may be receiving too much direct sunlight. 

Remember, finding the right balance of light is crucial for the health and appearance of your Plectranthus neochilus blue coleus. With the proper lighting conditions, this stunning plant will thrive and bring beauty to your space. 

Optimal Soil & Fertilizer Needs 

The Plectranthus neochilus prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Use a well-drained specialty soil mix, as this type of potting soil mix has been precisely developed to imitate well-drained desert soils. We believe the best option is to use our specialty succulent potting mix that contains 5 natural substrates and organic mycorrhizae to promote the development of a strong root system that helps your lobster flower succulent to thrive. 

If you don't mind getting a bit of dirt on your hands and are okay with a basic soil for your cacti or succulents, then you can save some money and make your own mix by simply combing healthy natural garden soil with equal parts of sand or perlite. 

When it comes to fertilizing the blue coleus, it benefits from minimal feeding once a year during the growing season, which is typically in the spring. You can use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer with a ratio of 5-10-5 or a similar formulation.

It's important not to over-fertilize the blue coleus, as this can lead to excessive growth and potentially diminish the intensity of its blue coloration. Always follow the recommended dosage and avoid applying fertilizer to dry soil or on foliage to prevent burning the coleus plant. 

Hardiness Zone & More

The Plectranthus neochilus blue coleus is generally considered a tender perennial plant that is hardy in USDA hardiness zones 8-10. In these zones, it can be grown as a perennial outdoor plant and can withstand the milder winter temperatures. However, in colder regions, where the temperatures drop below freezing, it is often grown annually or brought indoors during the winter months. 

If you live in a region with colder winters, you can still enjoy the beauty of the blue coleus by growing it as an annual or as a container plant that you bring indoors during the colder months. Just make sure to provide it with the right growing conditions, including adequate light and well-draining soil. 

Remember, the Plectranthus neochilus blue coleus is a stunning plant that can bring vibrant color to your garden or indoor space. Whether you're in a warm or colder climate, you can find a way to enjoy this beautiful plant. 

We think you will love this lobster flower plant – order your very own Plectranthus neochilus -blue coleus today and start enjoying its beauty in no time!